Since moving our family out of PVD to the wilds of Greenville a few years ago, my husband and I have lamented the loss of a wide variety of gluten-free dining right within walking distance. Color me thrilled when I discovered some new and excellent gluten-free al fresco dining options right within our summer work, play and beach travels! Now, thanks to some world-class and health-conscious local chefs, dining al fresco and staying gluten-free is spectacularly easy.
Chief among my favorite discoveries in the Northern RI area is Blackie’s Bulldog Tavern in Smithfield. Comfort food is taken to a whole new level of creativity with the innovative menu from award-winning executive chef Angie Armenise. They have the largest gluten-free (and paleo!) menu I have ever seen with a wide variety of inspired dishes running the gamut from house-smoked BBQ to tempting entrees, salads, burgers and more. With the summer months comes the opening of their outdoor patio draped in luxurious funky curtains that are definitely an eye-catcher from the street. Just 20 minutes outside of PVD, Blackie’s is open daily at 11:30am and continues serving their deliciously inspired dishes until the wee hours of the night.
Blackie’s Bulldog Tavern, 181 George Washington Hwy, Smithfield; 401.231.4777; blackiesbulldogtavern.com
Our favorite family-friendly beach-bound spot is the aptly named Crazy Burger Café in Narragansett. Right off Narragansett Pier, you may remember their profile on Food Channel’s “Diners, Drive-ins and Dives,” but what you may not know is that they have the cutest outdoor dining area in the back of the café. Crazy Burger offers a unique collection of beef, salmon, turkey and vegan burgers — with the option of gluten-free bread – and topped with the wildest combinations of fresh ingredients imaginable. If you’re craving more than a burger, the menu also features fresh seafood, ribs, enchiladas, risotto and more. Top that off with a B.Y.O.B.B.A.M. (Bring Your Own Booze By All Means) policy and you have a winner on your hands.
Crazy Burger Café & Juice Bar, 144 Boon St, Narragansett; 401.783.1810; crazyburger.com
When the husband and I are up for a romantic night out, our favorite summer date-night is a mini-road trip to The Boat House Restaurant in Tiverton. Recognized as one of the Top Scenic Views in the country by OpenTable for the past four years running, The Boat House offers spectacular views of the beautiful Sakonnet River from a warm, inviting atmosphere. We have enjoyed delicious fresh seafood and inventive entrée offerings from both their regular and gluten-free menus and always manage to find room for dessert. (With a kitchen helmed by Top Chef’s “Just Desserts” fan favorite Matthew Petersen, how can you not indulge in his artful creations?)
The Boat House Restaurant, 227 Schooner Dr, Tiverton; 401.624.6300; boathousetiverton.com
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